How Does Technology Affect Our Lives?

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Quick Answer

Technology changes the human brain, makes people more connected yet lonelier, reduces critical thinking skills, alters consumer spending habits, and literally makes money. Technology and computers are a part of everyday life in the global, consumer-based economy.

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Implanted medical devices allow patients to move body parts by thinking into a device. Electronic devices, and the stimulation presented on them, alter brain chemistry in a similar fashion to someone using the imagination to visualize an outcome.

Psychologists believe technology harms the human sensory network, which may be detrimental to the development of the species. Instead of relying on emotional, instinctual and sensory stimuli, humans who rely on technology may use factual information to take action. This may lead to faulty decision making.

A recent study concluded that impersonal written communications, such as texts message and social media posts, made humans feel more lonely than technology-free communication. This trend affected those who were 35 and younger.

Technology affects consumer spending. Recently, a record $211.3 billion was spent in one year on consumer electronics, such as connected devices, laptop computers and flat-screen televisions. The largest areas of sales increases were for 3-D printers, smart watches, and fitness devices.

The U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing uses computer technology to produce currency that attempts to outwit counterfeiters. Printing presses rely on perfectly timed computers to manufacture 10,000 sheets of currency per hour.